Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall announced that, effective immediately, the City of Barrie will take decisive action to limit procurement from United States-based vendors for all municipal projects. This decision, supported by the powers granted under the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, will include:
- A ban on new procurement contracts with US-based vendors.
- Removal of all U.S. based vendors from the City’s preferred vendor list for municipal projects.
This move follows the recent imposition of tariffs by President Donald Trump, which will significantly impact the cost and feasibility of engaging with U.S. suppliers. The mayor has stated that this decision is in the best interest of the City of Barrie, aiming to prioritize local economic growth and ensure that the municipality is not subjected to unfair trade practices that increase costs for taxpayers.
“President Trump's attack on Canada’s sovereignty with the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods and services is an attempt at threatening our jobs, the finances of families and attempting to take food off our tables,” said Mayor Nuttall. “The decision to utilize the powers of the Strong Mayors is a step toward fighting back, protecting our economy, our taxpayers, and the integrity of our procurement processes.”
